Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken And Broccoli

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken And Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups cooked chicken, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Fast Home Cooking

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli for a weeknight dinner! This dish is not only delicious but also quite simple to prepare. The colorful broccoli mixed with tender chunks of chicken and perfectly cooked pasta creates a hearty meal that satisfies my family every time. The light garlic and olive oil sauce brings everything together beautifully, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings when we crave something both healthy and comforting. It’s always a hit around the dinner table for its flavors and ease of preparation.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:33:36.401Z

When I first experimented with Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli, I was amazed at how quickly it came together, yet still yielded a complex flavor. I learned that the key is to sauté the garlic in olive oil right before adding the broccoli—this infuses the oil with fragrant notes that elevate the entire dish. I typically use rotisserie chicken to save time, ensuring juicy, seasoned meat while keeping the cooking process efficient.

One of my favorite tips is to cook the pasta just a minute shy of package instructions. This allows it to absorb some of the sauce while finishing cooking. Tossing everything together in the same pan really brings out the flavors and ensures that each bite is deliciously coated. It’s a balanced meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The delightful pairing of tender chicken with vibrant broccoli.
An ideal blend of garlic and olive oil that enhances every bite.
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy evenings or unexpected guests.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

When preparing the bow tie pasta, it's essential to cook it just until al dente so that it retains a slight bite. This texture is crucial as it will continue to absorb the flavors of the garlic and olive oil once mixed in. Look for that perfect balance where the pasta is tender yet firm—usually about a minute less than the package suggests. Don't forget to reserve that cup of pasta water; it will help to adjust the sauce's consistency later.

In sautéing the broccoli, the goal is to achieve a vibrant color without overcooking it. I suggest keeping an eye on the florets—once they turn bright green and are tender-crisp (about 3-4 minutes), it's time to move on to the next step. If you find you have a little too much oil in the pan, consider draining some off, as you want just enough to coat the vegetables without making them greasy.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The combination of olive oil and garlic not only adds flavor but also enhances the overall dish's aroma, making your kitchen feel inviting. If you want to tweak the flavor, consider using flavored oils, such as garlic-infused olive oil, for an extra layer of taste. Additionally, if you prefer a little more zest, lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice can brighten up the overall profile and balance the richness.

For those looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or even chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian version. Just be mindful of the cooking times; shrimp typically cooks in 3-4 minutes, whereas chickpeas can be added directly from the can after the broccoli is sautéed. This flexibility makes the recipe adaptable to different dietary preferences and restrictions.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Leftovers of this dish can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to the pasta when warming it in a skillet, which will help to revive the sauce and prevent sticking. Microwaving is also an option—just cover it loosely and heat in short intervals to keep the pasta from becoming rubbery.

To elevate your meal, serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad, adding a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta. For an unusual twist, toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives just before serving for additional flavor complexity. These little additions not only enhance the taste but also create a more colorful and visually appealing dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli

Main Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups cooked chicken, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Add freshly grated Parmesan on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor!

Instructions

Steps to Make Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté the Broccoli

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1 minute. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp.

Combine Ingredients

Return the drained pasta to the pot with broccoli. Add the cooked chicken and stir to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Divide the pasta among plates, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and serve hot for a tasty meal.

Enjoy this dish with a side salad for a complete dinner experience!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can substitute grilled chicken with shrimp or add cherry tomatoes for a splash of color and sweetness.

Perfect Pairings

Bow tie pasta with chicken and broccoli pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity of these wines complements the garlic and olive oil, providing a balanced dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider serving it with sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber for a refreshing lift.

If you're looking to create a fuller meal, consider serving this pasta alongside grilled vegetables or a simple tomato salad. The freshness of the tomatoes will contrast nicely with the rich flavors of the pasta dish, while the grilled veggies add a smoky depth.

Scaling and Variations

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Simply double the amount of pasta and chicken while adjusting the broccoli. Keep in mind that you may need to slightly extend cooking times, especially for the broccoli. You'll want to ensure everything is evenly coated and heated through.

For variations, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies. If you want a creamier texture, a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta stirred in at the end can make for a luxurious twist. Each variation adds a unique taste and keeps this dish fresh and exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just thaw it and sauté in the oil until heated through.

→ What can I use instead of bow tie pasta?

You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

→ Is this recipe good for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.